Aspects of the reproduction, growth and development of the four-striped field mouse, Rhabdomys pumilio (Sparrman, 1784)

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Abstract
Aspects of the reproduction, growth and postnatal development of R. pumilio were studied in captivity and in a wild population. Mean litter size in captivity was 6.5 (range 3-10), while fetal counts on wild females gave a litter size of 5.9 (range 2.9). A post-partum estrus occurred and the minimum interval between litters was 23 days. The average age at 1st parturition was 90 days and all males were reproductively active by this age. The physical and behavioral development from birth to weaning was very rapid. Hearing and sight developed by days 7 and 8, respectively, and by day 10 young were walking efficiently. Asymptotic mass was reached at .apprx. 24 wk. An analysis of the reproductive and developmental characteristics of a number of southern African murids and cricetids indicated that 2 basic strategies are employed. The small- to medium-sized rodents, such as R. pumilio, use a strategy of maximizing the number of offspring, while the larger rodents employ the alternative strategy based on a reduced reproductive potential and possibly improved survival orientated behaviors.